I believe the intended moral of this story is about obsessing over your dreams, goals and targets. Constantly worrying, examining, and over analysing the outcomes until you ultimately sabotage your efforts and hard work. The moral being patience – plant the seed, water it and then just let it grow.
When I read it, it made me think of someone who has only received the first half of the instructions. If the story continued, I imagine his friend would tell him how long it takes the seeds to grow and what he should do when that happens. Therefore, completing his “education” and managing his expectations so he can become a successful gardener.
What are your experiences with only being given some or half of the information and being expected to intuitively know the rest?
For me, RFP documents without clear (or with contradictory) client objectives, scope of work and timelines are a good example!